Guide2025-01-05Updated 2026-10-093 min read

How to Take 4-Cut Photos at Home: Complete Guide

The short answer

To shoot 4-cut photos at home you need a phone or tablet, a stand, and window light. The my4cut app is free on iOS and Android: set the timer, take four shots, add a frame and share the strip by QR code. A printer is optional.

Why shoot at home?

Offline photo booths cost $3-5 per session, and booth rentals for events can run $400+.

At home you control the time, mood, and background — and it's completely free with my4cut.

It's perfect for hangouts, birthdays, family days, or home parties.

Families with young kids especially love the convenience of not having to travel.

From frame selection to shooting and sharing, the whole process takes under a minute.

Gear checklist

Smartphone or iPad — any device with a front camera works.

Tripod or stand — cheap ones from Amazon ($5-15) work perfectly. A stack of books also does the job.

Lighting — window light is best. A ring light ($10-20) makes skin tones even better.

Background — a solid color wall is cleanest. Add balloons or a glitter curtain ($3) for party vibes.

Front-facing light reduces harsh shadows on faces.
Simpler backgrounds make the frame look cleaner.
Stand height should be at eye to chest level for the most natural look.

Angles and framing

Set the camera at eye level for the most natural proportions.

Keep your upper body centered for a balanced frame.

For 2+ people, step back so everyone's upper body fits in the frame.

A distance of 3-5 feet (1-1.5m) from the camera gives the least distortion.

With wide-angle lenses, step back a bit to reduce distortion.
Angling slightly above eye level makes faces look slimmer.

Shooting flow

Install my4cut app and choose your favorite frame.

Set the timer (3 seconds) and strike a pose for 4 consecutive shots.

Your 4-cut strip is generated instantly — save or share it right away.

Do 1-2 test shots first to check lighting and composition for best results.

Vary your expressions and poses across the 4 frames for a fun, natural strip.

Sharing and printing

Share your result via QR code or save it directly to your photo album.

Send friends a link — they can view and download in one tap.

Create a shared event link for group sharing at parties.

For prints, connect a photo printer like Canon SELPHY CP1500, or use a drugstore print service.

4x6 inch (10x15cm) photo paper fits the 4-cut layout perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to take 4-cut photos at home?

The my4cut app is free. You just need a tripod ($5-15) and lighting. Using natural window light means zero extra cost.

Can I shoot without an iPad, using just my phone?

Yes! Any smartphone with a front camera works perfectly. The app supports timer and frame features on all devices.

How do I print the photos?

Connect a photo printer like Canon SELPHY CP1500 for instant prints. Without a printer, save the file and upload to a drugstore print service.

What if I don't have a ring light?

Natural light from a window facing you is sufficient. On cloudy days, maximize screen brightness or use a desk lamp.

How many people can shoot together?

There's no limit, but for 4+ people, keep the camera at least 5 feet (1.5m) away and use wide-angle mode so everyone fits.

How high should I set the phone?

Between eye and chest level looks natural. When people are sitting at a table, I put the phone slightly below eye level so nobody has to lift their chin. I found that while shooting a family 4-cut at Chuseok.

How do we get the photos without a printer?

Scan the QR code and the strip saves straight to your phone. No need to send it over a chat app. You can print the file later if you want a paper copy.